PM Modi Congratulates Team India for its Historic Victory against Australia

Brisbaneः Australia’s bowlers again failed to take advantage of a day five pitch and a weakened opposition as India pulled off a staggering victory that returned the Border-Gavaskar Trophy to the sub-continent. Australia entered day five requiring 10 wickets against 324 runs with the biggest obstacle facing them the threat of rain in Brisbane.

But obstinate and at times aggressive batting from India, led by the courageous Cheteshwar Pujara and the bolshie Rishabh Pant, frustrated Australia’s world-leading bowling attack at a traditionally happy hunting ground in the Gabba.
A tense two-wicket win for the hosts in the dead rubber gives the crowd plenty to cheer about as Kartik and Zaheer embrace mid-pitch. Australia have already won the series and India can take some pleasure from this match.

Kartik was the hero with the ball, picking up a career-best 6 for 27 as India nipped out the last eight wickets for 76 runs and keeping Australia to 193 in 41.3 overs. In reply Australia were excellent with the new ball, hitting all the right areas and swinging out the big names. Uthappa was upto the challenge, however, keeping things in check with a classy 47 before Kartik and Zaheer held their nerve to seal the deal in 46 overs. They added 52 in 10.2 overs.

A dramatic win, yes, but India have plenty to do ahead of their full series against Pakistan coming up soon. Australia take the Future Cup 4-2. They won playing aggressive, professional cricket, something India lacked in patches.

Dhoni comes up first: "We never started the series well so we wanted to end well ... it was a team effort ... the batsmen failed but full credit to Uthappa, Zaheer and Kartik ... it was a gamble calling up Kartik but its one that paid off and I'm proud of him ... this is a team victory."

"We are all overjoyed at the success of the Indian Cricket Team in Australia. Their remarkable energy and passion was visible throughout. So was their stellar intent, remarkable grit and determination. Congratulations to the team! Best wishes for your future endeavours," PM Modi wrote on his social media handle